I am seeing a fair amount of posts about
POTS in
more than one forum although it has been a topic discussed in the Heart and Cardiac Forum, it is now showing up in Anxiety, GERD, Lymes, Chronic Fatigue and Lupus .
The forums are set up to specifically address each disorder or illness. The members are here to support one another by sharing their own experieces or ask questions about their disorder.
What is POTS?
Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a manifestation of autonomic dysfunction and is defined as an increase in heart rate of over 30 beats per minute when standing upright but without a postural fall in blood pressure; this is often made worse by even modest physical exertion. It is a relatively new disorder, which is slowly being recognized by the medical profession. It is often underappreciated by physicians, which can impact on the patient’s quality of life through misdiagnosis or being informed symptoms are “all in their head”. Historically, many patients with POTS were given a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Myalgic Encephalopathy, anxiety or panic disorder to name a few.
Some patients are so incapacitated by their symptoms that they are often misdiagnosed as having chronic anxiety or panic disorder or, worse being told that it is all "in their head".
The hallmark symptom of POTS is an increase in heart rate. A tilt table test is vital to diagnosing POTS, although all symptoms must be considered before a final diagnosis is made.
As we advise any member here in HealingWell, if you continue to have symptoms do be your own best advocate and seek out a second opinion. We are always here to support and share with you because we care.
Thank you kindly,
Kitt